Heading for the Six-month DL

~ slfuchs

Aside from my work as Rabbi of Bat Yam Temple of the Islands, my greatest joy in Sanibel last season was playing as a member of the Beachview Tennis Club Blue team. I played in the number one spot, compiling a 13-1 record with two different partners.

The guys on the team are really great, and I looked forward to every match and practice. I particularly loved the “tough love” clinics that the club’s terrific pro, Toni Halski, conducts early in the morning. Those sessions were wonderfully helpful.

My right shoulder has been problematic for a number of years. I have done everything I could to avoid surgery:  cortisone injections from time to time, several rounds of physical therapy, and ample doses of painkillers. I probably should have purchased stock in the KT Tape Company.

Unfortunately, playing competitively last season, even though I mostly just dumped my first serve into the box, pushed me over the edge. Since the season ended the pain has been constant.  Tests reveal three different significant tears in the right rotator cuff, and I am scheduled for surgery this coming Thursday, July 26.

While my carefully chosen surgeon says there is no guarantee the procedure will be successful, I am hoping for a full recovery and to be back to playing tennis once again. If I should be so fortunate, though, it will be at the end of an arduous six-month process of physical therapy and rehabilitation.

Aside from the fact that I still love the game, why is a 72-year-old man so eager to be back on the courts?

During my life I have had many years of formal education, but without doubt I have learned more about people, teaching and life in general from the competitive tennis I have played and from the five summers I spent as a teaching pro while in school.

So, I head for the (at least) Six-month Disabled List with genuine regret that I will not be able to represent Beachview next season but with the hope that there will be more seasons in the future for me to feel the joys and frustrations of the game I so love.

 

Published by slfuchs

Loving husband, father, grandfather and rabbi. Author of, "What's in It for Me? Finding Ourselves in Biblical Narratives,” "ToraHighlights,” “Why the Kof?,” “Why Triple Chai?,” "Who Created God?," and "...And Often the First Jew." On October 17, 2017, Rabbi Fuchs was selected as the recipient of the Vanderbilt Divinity School's Distinguished Alumnus Award. To be considered for this award, one must demonstrate excellence and distinction in justice-making through their efforts in congregational ministry, religious institutions, non-denominational/all-inclusive organizations, community–based organizations, government, or other social institutions. Spent last four falls serving in Milan, Italy, (2013) and Germany (2014-2016). Otherwise, he enjoy writing and speaking after serving three congregations and as President of the World Union for Progressive Judaism. He is currently serving as Rabbi of Bat Yam Temple of the Islands, Sanibel, Florida.

17 thoughts on “Heading for the Six-month DL”

  1. Wishing you an easy time with the surgery. The recuperation part does indeed involve some work but nothing that should daunt YOU! I had a complete shoulder replacement last year and although I have heard that is easier than a roator cuff, I rejoice in now being able to do simple things that became difficult over time. Things that helped me were 1. lots and lots of icing (there is a special machine that makes it easy) and 2. sleeping in a recliner chair so that it was easy to get relatively comfortable–much easier than a bed. Let me know if you want to hear more.

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    1. Sandy, I admit it does daunt me, but I so appreciate your encouraging words! We have already rented a recliner as you suggest. If you have more tips, I want them all.

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  3. Wishing you a refuah shelama!
    You are a warrior! I have faith that in due time, you’ll be back out on the courts!
    Regards to your Special Caretaker!

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  4. Wishing you a refuah shelama!
    You are a warrior! I have faith that in due time, you’ll be back out on the courts!
    Regards to your Special Caretaker!

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  5. Wishing you a refuah shelama!
    You are a warrior! I have faith that in due time, you’ll be back out on the courts!
    Regards to your Special Caretaker!

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  7. Wishing you a successful surgery and speedy recovery! I know you’ll work hard to get your movement back so that you can continue playing what you enjoy! Thinking of you!

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  12. I just read about your surgery this week. I hope all goes well for you. With your willpower you will be all recovered by the time you return to Sanibel. My best for both of you. Carla Benninga

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